School struck by burglars for the third time

Burglars attempted to break into Hanging Heaton Junior and Infant School in High Street at 7.45pm on Sunday March 22, by smashing a front door window.

Headteacher Janet Thompson said: “I think it is disgusting – in the end it’s taking from children. It’s very disappointing and my main concern is for the children and making them feel safe.”

She said CCTV footage showed a man lurking in the area for around 20 minutes before breaking the window.

And when he could not get in he broke another near the head’s office with a large stone.

The incident follows two other attempted burglaries in the last two months.

Mrs Thompson said the school had since invested in a tougher security system.

Meanwhile Dean Ellis, who runs a community payback team that has worked on a number of regeneration projects in the area, said people should be particularly vigilant after a string of house burglaries and thefts from vehicles around High Street.

He said he knew of at least five in the last month – including his own home.

Coun Eric Firth (Lab, Dewsbury East) said: “Burglary is a particularly awful crime because people’s privacy is invaded.”

Call police on 101.